Though the year’s calendar at Wayland is full of special events, the Centennial Gala looks to be a highlight for both the WBU family and the community surrounding her.
Slated for March 21, the black tie event will be held in the new Pete and Nelda Laney Student Activities Center and include a formal dinner. Following the meal, a concert by the Glenn Miller Orchestra will round out the gala evening.
A native of Iowa, Glenn Miller began performing as a musician at a young age. By his early 20s, he was touring with several orchestras and writing his own arrangements. Miller played and recorded with the likes of Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey, Gene Krupa, Eddie Condon and Coleman Hawkins. In addition, during that time, Glenn cut 18 sides for Benny Goodman, and also worked for radio studio conductors. In 1934, Miller became the musical director of the Dorsey Band, and later went on to organize The Ray Noble Orchestra. He recorded under his own name in 1935 and formed his own band in 1937.
After record-breaking recordings and performances, Miller entered the Army in 1942 and eventually oversaw an Army Air Force Band which performed around the world. He left in December 1944 to prepare for the group’s tour in Europe and was never seen again. His legacy lives on in the touring orchestra group, led by Larry O’Brien.
The event is designed as a fundraiser for the university, with proceeds going for scholarships in the Second Century Campaign.
For more information on the event, contact the Office of Advancement at (806) 291-3425.